Other Particles

6.4. Other Particles
A final category of small words in Greek is the particles. These small words do not belong to one of the major parts of speech, even though they have grammatical functions. The word ‘to’ in the English infinitive ‘to be’ is a good example of a particle. Actually, the two categories of small words discussed above, conjunctions and prepositions, are also particles. This section is therefore named ‘other’ particles. Greek has different kinds of particles.
The negative particles ου (ou) or ουκ (ouk) and μη (mē) ‘no, not’ are well-known.
In Greek these two negative particles can be used together, as a double negative. This usage is not found in English.
The one who follows me will never (ου μη) walk in darkness, but will have the light of life (John 8:12 NET).
I tell you the truth, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means (ου μη) disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished (Matt. 5:18).
You will certainly not (ου μη) enter the kingdom of heaven (Matt. 5:20 NIV).
You will never (ου μη) enter the kingdom of heaven (Matt. 5:20 NET).
The double negative in Greek is translated as a strong negative in English: ‘certainly not, never, by no means’.